Understanding the significance of white, purple, and black poppies on Remembrance Day

On Remembrance Day, many wear red poppies to honor soldiers who died in war. However, some choose white, purple, or black poppies due to concerns that the red poppy has become politicized and associated with military power. White poppies, distributed by the Peace Pledge Union, remember all war victims and promote peace. They were first introduced in 1933 and are less common than red poppies, with about 100,000 sold each year. Purple poppies honor animals that served in wars, while black poppies recognize the contributions of African, Black, Caribbean, and Pacific Island communities. Each poppy serves a distinct purpose in remembrance.